How I want you to do it: Use your best judgment. I don't want to be too legalistic about precise parameters. The only things I really insist upon are: a) use a hierarchical bullet-point format (i.e., point, sub-point, etc.) b) use APA style c) include your current topic and research question near the top of your outline d) include your thesis statement in the first paragraph e) include your sources and cite them appropriately f) submit it as a Word document